What allergy meds can I take while breastfeeding?

Understanding Allergy Medications While Breastfeeding
Navigating the world of allergy medications can be particularly challenging for breastfeeding mothers. It’s crucial to choose options that are safe for both the mother and her nursing infant. Fortunately, there are several antihistamines that have been deemed safe for use during breastfeeding.
Recommended Antihistamines
Cetirizine (Zyrtec) and loratadine (Claritin) are among the most recommended antihistamines for breastfeeding mothers. These medications have been studied extensively, and their safety profiles indicate that they pose minimal risk to nursing infants. Research shows that the amount of these drugs that passes into breast milk is very low, making them suitable choices for managing allergy symptoms while breastfeeding.
Other antihistamines, such as fexofenadine (Allegra) and desloratadine (Clarinex), are also considered safe, although they may not have as much research backing their use compared to cetirizine and loratadine. These medications are generally well-tolerated and are unlikely to cause adverse effects in infants.
Caution with First-Generation Antihistamines
While first-generation antihistamines like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) are commonly used, they are not recommended for breastfeeding mothers. These medications can cause sedation in both the mother and the infant, potentially leading to decreased milk supply and drowsiness in the baby. Therefore, it’s advisable to avoid these older antihistamines if possible.
Non-Sedating Options
For mothers looking for alternatives that do not affect alertness, non-sedating antihistamines are the preferred choice. These medications, such as those mentioned earlier, are less likely to cause side effects that could impact both the mother and her child. Additionally, there are nasal sprays and other topical treatments that can help alleviate allergy symptoms without entering the bloodstream or breast milk.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers can safely use cetirizine and loratadine to manage allergy symptoms. While other options like fexofenadine and desloratadine are also available, caution should be exercised with first-generation antihistamines due to their sedative effects. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new medication to ensure it aligns with your specific health needs and circumstances.

What medicine can I take for a cold while breastfeeding?

Most cold medicines are safe while breastfeeding, especially if you take them short term and only when you need them. Some of the medications that are safe include: Expectorants that contain guaifenesin (Mucinex®, Robitussin® and others). Cough suppressants that contain dextromethorphan (DayQuil®, Delsym® and others).

Should I take Claritin or zyrtec while breastfeeding?

Cetirizine (Zyrtec) and loratadine (Claritin) are the recommended antihistamines when breastfeeding. Other antihistamines are also considered safe but do not have as much research to support this. These include Allegra and Xyzal. Antihistamines such as Zatador are available as eye drops, which help itchy, watery eyes.

Will Claritin dry up my milk supply?

Is It Safe to Take Claritin While Breastfeeding? While regular Claritin is completely fine, taking Claritin-D while breastfeeding may reduce milk supply. Claritin-D contains both loratadine, an antihistamine, and pseudoephedrine sulfate, a nasal decongestant,2 which may reduce milk supply, says Silverman.

Which works better, Claritin or Zyrtec?

Zyrtec (cetirizine) and Claritin (loratadine) are two popular brands. They contain different compounds but appear to be equally effective. Antihistamines can reduce allergy symptoms, such as watering eyes, itchy skin, hives, and swelling.

Is Tylenol cold and Sinus ok for breastfeeding?

Many medicines are safe to use when you breastfeed. These include: Pain relievers, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin). Some cold and influenza (flu) medicines.

Does Zyrtec decrease milk supply?

Remember, there are also many medications that can reduce your milk supply. For example, antihistamines like Benadryl, Zyrtec, Allegra, etc, or decongestants like Sudafed, can decrease your milk supply.

Will Zyrtec dry up breast milk?

Remember, there are also many medications that can reduce your milk supply. For example, antihistamines like Benadryl, Zyrtec, Allegra, etc, or decongestants like Sudafed, can decrease your milk supply.

Can I take antihistamines while breastfeeding?

Recommendation. The preferred choice of sedating antihistamine is chlorphenamine due to extensive experience of safe use. Hydroxyzine or promethazine can be used when breastfeeding with caution and close monitoring, if chlorphenamine is not suitable.

What allergy medicine is safe while breastfeeding?

All antihistamines are considered safe to use during breastfeeding, as minimal amounts are excreted in the breast milk and would not cause any adverse effects on a breastfeeding infant.

What is the safest allergy medicine to take while pregnant?

Safe OTC medications:

• Diphenhydramine (Benadryl®)
• Loratidine (Claritin®)
• Cetirizine (Zyrtec®)
• Nasal steroid (Flonase®)
• Guaifenesin (plain Mucinex®)
• Mentholated cream (Vicks Vapor Rub®)
• Afrin® may be used, but only for a short time (three days or less)